The Arboretum has two major components. The Home Demonstration Garden, with its assortment of trees, shrubs and garden plants, shows how plants can be used in Kentucky residential landscapes. The Walk Across Kentucky, whose ribbon-cutting is Arbor Day (April 18, 1998), is a two-mile trail which highlights plants of Kentucky's seven geophysical regions.

"The Arboretum's mission is to provide a plant haven where people can get together, have fun while they learn about Kentucky, and protect and add to this state's subtle biodiversity and rich traditions."